Aerospace firm GE Aviation Wales has confirmed it has entered talks with staff about voluntary redundancies.
Earlier this year the Nantgarw-based firm, which carries out aircraft engine maintenance, said it was considering shedding around 100 staff after a fall in the number of engines sent to the plant.
The company, which employs a highly-skilled workforce of around 1,350 people, has now said it is looking for 90 voluntary redundancies and is consulting with trade union Unite.
A spokesperson for GE Aviation said: “We have engaged with Unite representatives regarding the company’s intent to enter into formal consultation on a proposed voluntary redundancy programme at GE Aviation Wales.
“Our objective is and always has been to ensure we have a sustainable business in a competitive market place. If this proposal is implemented, it would mean a reduction in the workforce at GE Aviation Wales.
“GE Aviation Wales regrets the loss of any jobs. However, this proposal is necessary in order to right-size the business without impacting performance and furthermore strengthen the company for future growth.
“As this will be an entirely voluntary offering, it is not possible to predict the exact number of voluntary redundancies, but we have identified a provisional requirement for around 90 volunteers.
“We do not intend to make any compulsory redundancies as part of this proposal.
“Before any final decision is taken regarding the implementation of this proposal, the company is fully committed to engaging in formal consultation with Unite and employee representatives on the matter.
“We remain committed to continuing an open dialogue with our workforce and to providing information and advice to support our employees.”
GE Aviation Wales specialises in the overhaul, repair and maintenance of a range of aircraft engines and has over 90 customers worldwide.
It has a turnover of £1.5 billion and is considered by the Welsh Government to be an “anchor company”.
Caerphilly AM Jeff Cuthbert and MP Wayne David met with company bosses on May 13.
Mr David said: “It is regrettable that the company has decided to lose 90 jobs through voluntary redundancy. Jeff Cuthbert and I are however pleased that there is going to be full consultation with Unite the Union and the company has made it clear that the future of the facility is secure. It is also significant that the company has given a commitment to continue with its apprenticeships scheme.
“The GE facility at Nantgarw is the most important employer in the area and bothJeff Cuthbert and I will do everything we can to ensure that the facility is successful.”
It is not nice to see any company make job cuts but I am surprised it is not quadruple this amount. GE Aviation Wales is a hassle to get to and hundreds of miles away from any major airport. It would be better suited if it was moved to be between London and Manchester just off the motorway.
It is not nice to see any company make job cuts but I am surprised it is not quadruple this amount. GE Aviation Wales is a hassle to get to and hundreds of miles away from any major airport. It would be better suited if it was moved to be between London and Manchester just off the motorway.